The research team studied data from 20 countries including the UK, the US, Spain, France, Germany, Australia and Japan. Lead author Caoimhe Twohig-Bennett, from UEA's Norwich Medical School, said: "We found that spending time in, or living close to, natural green spaces is associated with diverse and significant health benefits. It reduces the risk of type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, premature death, and preterm birth, and increases sleep duration.

"People living closer to nature also had reduced diastolic blood pressure, heart rate and stress. In fact, one of the really interesting things we found is that exposure to greenspace significantly reduces people's levels of salivary cortisol -- a physiological marker of stress.

'Green space' was defined as open, undeveloped land with natural vegetation as well as urban green spaces, which included urban parks and street greenery.

Research shows spending just 2 hours per week in green space can make a difference. So let's get out, enjoy nature and help our health at the same time!